The following are terms and levels of care that are commonly used in the senior-care industry.

Independent Living Facilities are typically apartments located near other higher levels of care (Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing) in a campus setting owned by the same organization. If medical care is needed, it is not far away. If the resident requires a higher level of care as time goes on, they can move to the next level while staying in the same general location or campus.

Assisted Living Facilities are designed for people who do need some assistance with activities of daily living, yet do not require around-the-clock nursing care. Normally, the setting is more home like and less institutional in feel.

Intermediate Care Facilities are for residents who can no longer stay at home but need more medical care than offered in an Assisted Living Facility. Residents usually stay long term in these facilities. The medical care is lighter than that of a Skilled or Long Term Care Facility.

Long Term Care or Skilled Nursing Facilities are designed for residents who, due to a chronic illness or compromised medical condition, can no longer live independently and require around-the-clock nursing care. While this level of care is typically long-term, many residents can receive Medicare covered rehabilitation therapies such as Physical, Occupational, and Speech therapy, then discharge to home.

Subacute Care is for patients whose medical needs specifically require a short-term, post-hospital stay in an inpatient setting prior to being discharged home. Subacute patients typically receive a combination of skilled nursing care plus extensive rehabilitation therapies. The majority of residents requiring Subacute Care are medically demanding and require the highest level of care available outside of the hospital setting.

Alzheimer's Care or Memory Care Facilities are designed to meet the specific clinical needs of patients with Alzheimer's disease or dementia. A resident cannot be admitted without a primary diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or Dementia.

Hospice Care is a special level of care for residents with a terminal illness typically with a diagnosis of 6 months of life or less. Hospice care is generally provided in a Skilled Nursing Facility.

Respite Care is a short-term stay at a nursing facility for families and caregivers that need a break or want to go on vacation. Typically a respite stay is 30 days or less. Facilities use this program as a marketing opportunity and hope that the resident will consider them if a long-term placement is necessary in the future.

* The information that we provide is totally objective. We are not affiliated with nor are we reimbursed by any nursing facilities.